Y-3 Menswear: AW13 Collection

Y-3: AW13 Menswear Collection

A futuristic-retro look is the order of the day with Y-3’s AW13 offering. The lookbook reveals a host of cultural influences blending into a single athletic-inspired streetwear collection that’s like nothing else on shelves right now.

On a superficial level, Y-3’s autumn/winter aesthetic alludes to the urban ensembles of the late 1990s; think puffa jackets, track pants and wide-legged shorts. Bringing together Adidas and designer Yohji Yamamoto, the visual aspect is one that indicates the brand’s intention to stay on top of current streetwear trends.

At a greater depth, geometric prints and high-quality materials suggest experimentation and a change of direction from past collections. Although the colour-blocked angular patterns are based on camouflage prints, neon shades – green (called ultra-pop) or pink (alpha-pop) are the two variations – stand out amongst the grid-like combination of black and grey.

According to an interview with Hypebeast earlier this year, Yamamoto’s colour choices are intentional: “Black… Besides, the word black evokes ‘laziness,’ and colour means ‘effort,'” he explained. “Black is very important in all my collections. But if you go through my Y-3 collections, I used a lot of yellow, red, blue, pink, etc.”

On a third level, Yamamoto and Adidas build practicality into their pieces, from the long shorts to the jackets. As an example, the patterned Print Techtaft Shorts appear lightweight, but PrimaLoft® insulation ensures warmth. Similarly, the RVS Twill Wool Jacket, an extended blazer style, offers the wearer a reversible, two-sided design of cotton twill and wool jersey.

Y-3’s focus on functionality even extends to its footwear. For instance, the Qasa High trainers feature neoprene and elastic straps to create a closer but still flexible fit.

The Y-3 website has all pieces available for purchase. Find them at Y-3.com now.